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Deuce Cities Henhouse


Holy crap. That’s what I say to myself as I scroll through this amazing four square home of Hillary and Jim Straatman, designed by Lisa Staton and photographed by Haris Kenjar. Have you ever had that experience with inspirational images? It’s only happened to me a handful of times where something I see hits me like a ton of bricks. This is probably three tons of inspiration all at once!

As someone who has struggled with living in a space clad with historic woodwork I can appreciate how hard it is to incorporate the heaviness of dark trim with a personal aesthetic that leans modern. This design is the ultimate solution to a tricky problem. Dark woodwork, light paint with cool undertones, neutral modern furniture, textural soft fabrics, and simple elegant shapes for decor. I’m floored. I have devoured every bit of every image.

Don’t get me wrong, I am really pleased with the solution to dark woodwork that I have spent years developing (lol, I sound like such a asshat). Moody dark paints – tones so dark they become nearly neutral. They minimize the weight of the woodwork. But then I see stuff like this and I have to reconsider everything, like everything.

Since so many of you have shared with me your struggles with wood trim, I wanted to pass a long this bit of hope. Please head on over to any of these articles ( The Nordroom | Remodelista | ) that feature this beautiful, wood trimmed, Washington state 1906 foursquare. Also, Lisa Staton is insanely talented designer I mean, this bathroom is bonkers.

To see all my other dark woodwork inspiration check out my pinterest board!

5 comments
in Inspiration
5 comments… add one
  • Anna M October 16, 2019

    DROOLWORTHY. I love the mcm/clean lined furnishings paired with the historic backdrop of the amazingly preserved dark wood balanced by creamy light walls. Definitely my fav combo.

  • Lynn November 8, 2019

    Although it is very pretty, light & airy, I find it very “cold” & austere. Looks very much like a show-house
    to me more than a lived-in, warm & welcoming home. Just one girl’s opinion. I always think the latter when I view the posts of your home.

  • Tracy November 16, 2019

    HOLY. I am so glad you posted this. I have been staring at my blank wall above my dark wood wondering what the heck to do. This is so inspiring!!

    • Angie April 3, 2020

      Thank you for posting this picture I have been wondering how my dark trim would look with light color walls. I love it!

  • Heather August 10, 2020

    Does your fireplace have a built-in mirror above the mantle being covered by your beautiful free-standing mirror?
    Just curious, as we just bought a character home with a built-in mirror above the mantle; but to me, it is dwarfed by the high ceiling. I was wondering about placing a similar sized free-standing mirror as the one in your fireplace pic…

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